Cover-Credits:
Larian Studios
Baldur's Gate 3, the highly anticipated RPG from Larian Studios, is not just about epic battles and grand quests. Hidden within its intricate gameplay are smaller yet equally captivating tasks, such as the enigmatic "Search The Cellar" quest. In this guide, we'll break down the steps needed to complete this quest, uncover hidden treasures, and make crucial decisions that shape your adventure.
Unlocking the secrets of the Search the Cellar Quest
To embark on the "Search The Cellar" quest, players must venture into the Blighted Village and locate a Cottage. Inside, a seemingly mundane bookcase harbors a secret. By moving crates and triggering a concealed lever, the bookcase slides aside, unveiling a hidden passage. Stepping through, players will encounter foes that need to be overcome before progressing further.
The Mirror's Riddles
Deeper within the cellar lies an ornate mirror, guarding the passage to an even more mysterious room. To pass through, players must correctly answer the mirror's questions:
Spea-k your name.
Answer: Your character's real name or a generated name.
If you are known to my mas-ter, step forward and de-clare yourself an ally.
Answer: "Yes, an ally! I’m an ally of your master’s!"
What do you th-ink of the Zulkir known as Szass Tam?
Answer: "A foul lich. May he die a thousand more deaths."
T-tell me, why might one use balsim ointment?
Answer: "To clean a wound?"
…if you could see an-ything in me, what w-ould it be?
Answer: "I’d look for whatever spell will rid me of this worm in my head."
Answering these riddles correctly will grant access to the room beyond the mirror, a treasure trove of necromantic artifacts.
The Forbidden Tome: A Fateful Decision
At the heart of this quest lies The Necromancy of Thay, a sinister book that holds both knowledge and danger. Players face a pivotal choice: whether to destroy the book or unlock its dark potential.
Destroy the Tome: If players opt to destroy the evil book, a radiant damage spell will suffice. However, be prepared for a battle against the Shadows that emerge from the destruction.
Unlock the Tome: Alternatively, players can delve further into the mystery by unlocking the book. This requires obtaining a Dark Amethyst, a gem that disappeared within the Blighted Village. To find it, adventurers must brave the Whispering Depths, face formidable foes like the Phase Spider Matriarch, and locate the gem.
Using the Dark Amethyst to unlock the book triggers a sequence of skill checks. Success grants "Forbidden Knowledge," boosting Wisdom Saving Throws, and Ability Checks. Failure, on the other hand, results in "Baleful Knowledge," imposing a disadvantage on Wisdom Saving Throws. Regardless of the outcome, the quest concludes with newfound insights and experience.
